The Experience
Your Own Country Retreat
Indulge in a cosy and family-friendly cottage stay amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Immerse yourself in the warmth of traditional hospitality and unwind in the serenity of our charming accommodations.
Each cottage is carefully appointed with quality linens, a fireplace, garden access, and everything you need for a restorative stay. Cottage stays are available independently of our retreat programmes.
Countryside Trail Rides
Our caregivers offer friendly companionship, providing social interaction that helps reduce loneliness and supports emotional well-being.
Beach Rides near Deauville
Experience unforgettable beach rides along the wide sandy coastline near Deauville, one of the most iconic horse riding destinations in France.
Arena Lessons
Improve your seat, balance and confidence with personalised arena sessions tailored to your riding level.
Groundwork & Horse Connection
Learn to communicate with horses through groundwork exercises focused on trust, awareness and connection.
Optional Polo Introduction
Guests interested in polo can enjoy an introductory session to discover the basics of this exciting equestrian sport.
Meet Our Horses
Our horses are at the heart of the Cheval Escapes experience. Each horse is carefully selected for its calm temperament, responsiveness and enjoyment of countryside riding.
We prioritise horse wellbeing and work with experienced trainers who focus on gentle, respectful training methods.
Every guest is matched with a horse suited to their experience level, confidence and size to ensure a safe and enjoyable partnership throughout the retreat.
Our horses are accustomed to the varied landscapes of Normandy, from quiet countryside trails to beach rides along the coast.
Safety & Rider Matching
Guest safety and horse welfare are our highest priorities.
Before arrival, guests complete a rider questionnaire that helps us understand their experience, confidence and preferences.
Our team then carefully matches each rider with the most suitable horse.
Key elements of our safety approach
• Pre-arrival rider questionnaire
• Professional guides and instructors
• Helmets and safety equipment provided
• Small group riding for a relaxed experience
Riding Levels Explained
To ensure the best experience for every guest, we organise rides based on rider ability.
Level
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Description
First time riders or those with limited experience. Focus on confidence and basic control.
Riders comfortable walking and trotting independently.
Confident riders comfortable cantering and riding in open countryside.
A Day in the Saddle
A typical riding day at Cheval Escapes is designed to be relaxed, immersive and deeply connected to the rhythm of the countryside.
Morning
Guided countryside ride through Norman farmland, orchards and quiet rural paths.
Afternoon
Optional arena lesson, groundwork session or relaxed countryside exploration.
Evening
Enjoy a slow evening with local cuisine, cider tasting or a peaceful countryside dinner.
Clara M., London
“A truly special escape.”
From the horses to the setting, everything felt thoughtful and unhurried. Cheval Escapes offers a rare balance of riding, rest, and understated luxury. We left feeling completely reset.
James & Sophie R., Paris
“More than a riding holiday.”
This was about slowing down and reconnecting with nature, with the horses, and with ourselves. The hosting felt warm and personal, and Normandy was the perfect backdrop.
Amelia T., New York
“Intimate, elegant, and deeply relaxing.”
The small group format made the experience feel exclusive without being formal. Beautiful rides, wonderful food, and a sense of calm that stayed with us long after we returned home.
For Riders
Guests must be comfortable walking and trotting independently, and feel confident riding within a group. While prior experience is required, it is perfectly fine to be a little rusty — sessions are adapted to allow riders to ease back into rhythm.
For Non-Riders
Beginner-friendly services are available upon request. Guests are always welcome to enjoy the experience without riding, focusing instead on groundwork, observation, and the wider Cheval Escapes experience.
Design Your Horse Riding Escape
Horse riding at Cheval Escapes offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Normandy through carefully guided rides and immersive equestrian retreats. Our horse riding holidays in Normandy combine countryside trail riding, beach rides near Deauville and personalised equestrian experiences in one of France’s most historic horse regions.
Whether you are seeking an equestrian countryside retreat or a horse riding holiday in France, Cheval Escapes provides a peaceful and luxurious riding experience.